When you step on the clutch pedal, the clutch linkage is supposed to disengage the clutch so you'll be able t,o shift into gear. Specifically, the clutch linkage causes the clutch disc to pull away from something called the flywheel (i.e. the two parts become disconnected). If the clutch linkage is just somewhat out of adjustment, grinding usually results when shifting into first gear but most likely you're still able to get the vehicle into first.

However, as is indicated in the problem, you can't shift at all into first and grinding doesn't occur when you try. This generally means the clutch linkage is severely out of adjustment. This is not suggesting this is positively the cause of this problem but rather that it's a very likely cause. There are other possible causes but most are difficult to diagnose by anyone other than a qualified mechanic.

What to do?

First, see if you can shift the car into second gear from a stop. With some cars, this will be possible even though shifting into first is impossible. Shifting into second from a stop means that you won't have to get the car towed. If this doesn't work, have it towed to a garage specializing in clutch work.

We suggest finding a reputable car repair shop to do the job. Ask the mechanic to adjust the clutch linkage. If this doesn't fix the problem, a "teardown" of the clutch assembly will probably be required and unfortunately, this won't be cheap.